It was May 23rd 1977 and my Gramma had passed away and a few days later it was visitation. I remember sitting quietly not saying a lot and just looking around the room at all the sadness and tears. I could not comprehend how God could let this happen... How could he take away the very core of our family  from us? Gramma was the strongest woman I had ever known. She was tough in lessons and even tougher when it came to the love of her family. Her love was strong so when she left us it left a void in all our lives. As I sat in the visitation room not being able to go pay my respects because I really thought that if I didn't see her there she really wouldn't be gone. Finally I couldn't take it any longer and I ran out of the room and down the stairs and out to the parking lot and down a tiny path and I sat there on a rock. I was hurt, I didn't understand and I was angry and felt so very alone. I sat and cried, fists clenched. 

I felt a hand touch my shoulder, I didn't turn around for a moment and there was just silence for a moment. I stood up and turned around and there she stood, Auntie Bernie. I remember her saying "Are you alright dear" and I replied "no Auntie Bernie I am not alright, I am so mad at God" at that very moment she extended her arms and I fell into them crying. Auntie held me for a few moments and I looked at her and she wiped away my tears and smiled that smile and I remember saying " How did you know where I was" and she replied " I saw you run out of the room and thought you could use a hug so I followed you". She asked me "Penny why are you angry" and I said " he took my Gramma away from me, it isn't fair and I will never forgive him" I will never forget her reply to that statement. Auntie Bernie took my hands and cupped them in hers and she said " Penny, God did not take her away from you to hurt you, he just called her home because she was needed there and he missed her". 

That day and those words helped me to understand God and why he does the things he does. That day Auntie Bernie taught me how to understand death and accept it even though it was difficult and I will never forget her and she has always remained in my heart even though I did not see her often I never forgot her words of wisdon or her love. I will miss you Auntie Bernie but I know God did not do this to hurt anyone. God missed you and needed you. I hope to meet you again some day and feel your hand on my shoulder and hear your beautiful voice the same way I did all those years ago.

All my Love and Admiration

Penny